Kayaks and classes

Stevens Pond may be closed to the public after a summer of fun, but the sounds of children playing could still be heard this September.

The North Andover Middle School held a field trip at Stevens Pond from Monday through Thursday this week to teach kids the basic skills of kayaking.

Directing and supervising the field trip was eighth grade physical education teachers Mary Beth Lawlor-Chesler and Kyle Wood.

"We really wanted to do something that had something to do with the town," she said. "Every year we try to add something new to the program."

Chestler ultimately teamed up Plum Island Kayak of Newburyport to help train the students in proper rowing techniques and rescue maneuvers.

Each day, a new group of about 45 students took to the water in kayaks, learning the basics of rowing both solo and in tandem. Students also learned important safety lessons, frequently while splashing in the water themselves.

"It’s opening their eyes to something new and something different," Chestler said. "If a kid falls in love with (the activity) that something they can do anytime in their life anywhere. It’s the talk of the school, the kids are so excited"

Chesler said the idea came to her and Wood about a year ago, following a brainstorm of ways to strengthen kids roots in the town and inspire physical activity.

Stevens Pond, she said, is one of the most overlooked resources in the town for outdoor activity and fun.

"We wanted the kids to love the pond as much as I did growing up," she said. " It’s our town symbol. It should have some meaning behind it. I want them to enjoy it and make it a part of their lives. Whether it’s swimming in the summer, kayaking in the fall or skating in the winter."

Stevens Pond is a small outlet of Lake Cochichewick, the town’s water supply, which acts as the town’s primary water recreational area. During the summer, residents can purchase season or day passes to swim in the pond.